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I’ve said it before and I’ll keep saying it: successful entrepreneurs read lots of books.

There is simply no better way to learn, engage with our cultural, and continuously commit to self-growth. Investing in yourself is one of the best ways to become a successful entrepreneur. And one of the best ways to invest in yourself is by reading lots of great books.

Proverbs 24:3-4 in the Amplified Bible says the following: 

Through skillful and godly wisdom is a house (a life, a home, a family) built and by understanding it is established [on a sound and good foundation] and by knowledge shall its chambers [of every area] be filled with all precious and pleasant riches. 

This verse lists three primary qualities for profitable enterprise – knowledge, understanding, and wisdom!

How do we, as entrepreneurs and business owners, gain these three qualities? There are several ways, but one of the best ways is to read excellent books. In fact, I challenge you to read one book a week for the next year. You will have read 52 books by the end of the challenge. THAT is a great use of your time and a wonderful way to gain knowledge, understanding, and wisdom. 

Since we are currently talking about social impact for the month of June, I encourage you to start with one of the following six books. Each of these suggestions is an excellent source of motivation, inspiration, and wisdom. Choose one and get started today!

 

6 Best Books about Social Impact for the Entrepreneur

 

1. A Good African Story by Andrew Rugasira

“This inspirational story of how an African-owned coffee company became a profitable global brand offers an argument for trade as opposed to aid, and a lesson in how Africa can dictate the terms of its future.” 

 

2. A Billion Bootstraps by Philip Smith and Eric Thurman

“A Billion Bootstraps explains how ordinary people can accelerate the microcredit movement by investing charitable donations in specific programs and then leveraging those contributions so the net cost to lift one person out of poverty is remarkably low. You’ll discover how to get more for your money by donating with the mind-set of an investor and calculating measurable returns-returns that will change lives and societies forever.”

Reading this book was the start of Tricord Global. Find out more about Tricord Global here

 

3. Nonprofit Essentials by Janet L. Hendrick

“This book is a concise and professional guide to donor relations in a format that is accessible, lively, easy to read, and that provides in-depth advice from an expert in the field. The book guides in creating and implementing each aspect of a donor relation plan, providing recommended solutions to frequently encountered dilemmas and including sample documents, checklists, and other tools to help shape an effective program.” 

 

4. Microfinance for Bankers and Investors by Elisabeth Rhyne

Longtime microfinance expert Elisabeth Rhyne and her team guide readers through the landscape of financial-inclusion opportunities, providing lessons from companies around the world that are leading the way in earning profits while addressing global poverty.” 

 

5. Dead Aid by Dambisa Moyo

“A national bestseller, Dead Aid unflinchingly confronts one of the greatest myths of our time: that billions of dollars in aid sent from wealthy countries to developing African nations has helped to reduce poverty and increase growth. In fact, poverty levels continue to escalate and growth rates have steadily declined―and millions continue to suffer. Debunking the current model of international aid promoted by both Hollywood celebrities and policy makers, Dambisa Moyo offers a bold new road map for financing development of the world’s poorest countries.”

 

6. Sustainable Banking with the Poor by Joanna Ledgerwood

“Microfinance is not simply banking; it is a development tool. It has been estimated that there are 500 million economically active poor people in the world operating microenterprises and small businesses. Most of them do not have access to adequate financial services. The purpose of this Handbook is to bring together in a single source guiding principles and tools that will promote sustainable microfinance and create viable institutions.”


 

There is no lack of excellent reading material for the hungry entrepreneur. Will you take my challenge of reading one book a week for the next year – 52 books in total? I have no doubt that you will see success in business, your personal life, and your bank account.

Reading is the best way to continually improve and better yourself. Start with one of these books this week! Comment and let me know if you’re accepting the challenge.

Stay tuned for more about social impact this month! If you missed last week’s opening article, head back HERE and check it out. It lays the foundation for the social impact series in June!